Watching your baby reach every new milestone is exciting. But some, like teething, can be one that brings pain and discomfort (for both you and the baby). When this starts happening can vary. Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months.
However, there’s a wide range of when it’s considered “normal” to start teething so don’t worry if it hasn’t happened by 7 or 9 months. Some babies get teeth early (some are even born with one or two!) while others get theirs later. The key is to keep an eye out for the signs of teething.
Signs of Teething
Most infants begin teething at around 6 months but this can happen earlier or later. If you suspect your baby is teething, look for symptoms such as:
- Drooling, which is the most common, tell-tale sign
- Chewing on different objects
- Irritability and crankiness
- Sore or tender gums
- A slight temperature elevation to around 37.2°C but no higher than 38°C
The bottom two teeth are usually the first to appear, so keep an eye on that area. Teething symptoms may come and go as each new tooth emerges.
When to Expect Teeth
As mentioned, every baby is different. But on average, babies have:
- 4 teeth by 11 months
- 8 teeth by 15 months
- 12 teeth by 19 months
- 16 teeth at 23 months
When your baby’s teeth come through is often linked to genetic factors. If your baby was born prematurely or at a low birth weight, that can also delay teething.
Relieving Teething Symptoms
If your baby is distressed or in pain due to teething, there are a few ways you can soothe the symptoms:
- Gently massage their gums with a clean finger or moistened gauze pad
- Hold a cold washcloth or chilled teething ring on your baby’s gums
- Offer them chilled foods
- Use clean plastic or rubber toys that are chilled for them to chew on.
Use occasional over-the-counter baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen, with your paediatrician’s approval.
Dental Care for Babies
Dental health for babies begins before the first tooth appears. Before any teeth form, you should regularly run a clean, damp washcloth over the gums to clear away harmful bacteria. Once your child has a tooth, you should be brushing them twice a day with a dot of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice, especially after the last drink or food of the day.
Remember not to put your baby to bed with a bottle as it can lead to tooth decay. Your little one will likely have a full set of their first teeth by age 3, by which time there should be a regular brushing and flossing routine just like adults.
Book a Dental Appointment in North Lakes Today
Make your first dental appointment when your baby’s first tooth appears. At Mango Hill Dental, we provide a wide range of dentistry services for the whole family in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Contact us today to book an appointment today at our clinic in North Lakes.